Lake Norman Paintball & Airsoft, Iron Station

Lake Norman Paintball & Airsoft operates out of Iron Station, NC (just southwest of Lake Norman off Highway 73, near East Lincoln High School). They run three distinct sports on one facility: regular impact paintball, low-impact paintball, and airsoft. The pricing structure keeps it simple—all three sports cost the same, and games run continuously throughout the day on weekends.

You get seven different courses to rotate through:

Games mix teams evenly and run with 10-minute time limits (some combined course games run longer). Refs keep play organized, fair, and safe throughout the day.

High-pressure air-powered markers shoot .68 caliber paintballs at 280 feet per second. Paint breaks on impact—when you get hit, you're out. You must purchase paintballs from the facility (no outside paint allowed). Mask is mandatory in all netted playing areas. Max FPS is 280, and only semi-automatic mode is allowed.

• •Rule standout: 10+ feet minimum distance to target. In close range, you can offer "surrender" or execute a "bunker tag" by physically tapping the bunker and yelling the call.

Smaller markers shoot .50 caliber paintballs at 260 fps—less sting, designed for younger players. The majority of the group must be ages 6-9, but older family/friends can join in. Same paintball-only rule applies.

Battery or HPA-powered replicas shoot 6mm biodegradable BBs at 350-450 fps. Despite the name, these sting like paintballs. Hit system is honor-based—you call yourself out when you feel the impact. Biodegradable BBs only; you can bring your own or buy at the shop.

• •Notable rules: Semi-auto, bolt, or pump action only (LMGs/SMGs get limited full-auto). Barrel sleeves mandatory. No blind firing. Z87.1/Z87+ eye protection required (under 18s need full face protection). Gun hits don't count—hits on body or gear do.

Rental equipment is available, but you need to book ahead. Weekend reservations are free (pay on arrival). Weekday groups require 72 hours notice and a deposit—minimum 10 people at $37/person ($380 total). Weekday groups get 4 hours and a dedicated ref. No deposit needed for weekend walk-ons if you bring your own gear.

Every player (renter or not) must complete an online waiver once per calendar year. Renters start with their group, then get mixed into general population games throughout the day.

Hours - Saturday: 9am–5pm - Sunday: 10am–5pm - Weekdays: Closed except group reservations (10+ people, 72 hours notice)

• •Location: 6237 Old Plank Rd., Iron Station, NC 28080 (between Mariposa Rd. and Clearbrook Ln.)

• •Payment: Cash (5% discount), all credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay.

Parking & Amenities - Two large restrooms with changing areas - Covered picnic tables (free to use) - Charcoal grill available - Refrigerator for cakes and drinks - Food available: microwaveable chicken sandwiches, hot pockets, burger sliders, snacks, beverages - Food delivery partners: Geppetto's and Marco's in Denver

• •Weather Policy: Open rain or shine. If weather's a concern, check your forecast and decide to come or reschedule. Once you've started playing and paid, no refunds due to weather.

Small on-site retail shop sells paintballs, BBs, snacks, and drinks. No outside paint for regular/low-impact paintball (insurance requirement). Biodegradable BBs allowed for airsoft if you bring your own.

Yearly membership available for players with their own gear: $350 for unlimited entries and air fills (12-month window). Loyalty punch card: Pay $20 entry for 4 visits, get the 5th free. Repeat as needed.

• •Air Service: High-pressure air only (no CO2). Fills included with entry fee. Tank refills only: $5 per 2 tanks (48–68 cubic inch sizes).

Birthday parties welcome at the same rates as open play. Every group gets picnic tables to decorate. You can bring your own food and beverages (alcohol permitted—play responsibly). Catering options available on-site or from local delivery partners. Gift certificates sold online and in-store.

• •Phone/Text: 704-748-2617 (texting preferred)
• •Email: [email protected]
• •Online: Full FAQ, rules, and reservation system on website

Players consistently cite the variety of fields and fair, organized gameplay as reasons to return.